History of Surfing

Above the Roar

Contributing To This Entry

Resolute pro surfer originally from East London, South Africa; four-time world champion (1987, 1989, 1991, 1992), and the first female surfer to twice regain the title. Botha was born (1965) and raised in East London, began surfing at age 13, and won four consecutive South African National Championship titles from 1981 to 1984. She turned pro and finished the 1985 world tour season ranked seventh, earning rookie-of-the-year honors. Two years later she won the first three events of the year an...